"People can do all of their shopping here," says Emily. "The Co-op is a destination spot for gift-giving that's socially responsible, takes into account our local economy, and is really focused on fair-trade local, and handmade."

The Co-op carries products crafted by long-time shoppers and member-owners, including the beautiful Arris Wood Works cutting boards, made from scrap wood by Seth Reed, who works in the Grocery Department. It's these relationships that make the economy of the department really unique.

Emily looks for small-scale artisans that create quality products with sustainability in mind. "It’s awesome and I love it." She looks through Etsy’s wholesale categories, meets with individual makers in our Co-op community, and is generally on the lookout for new items year round.

Emily is a maker herself—she attended welding school a few years back and makes gorgeous metal jewelry. She knows what to look for in quality items and values hand-made objects. Having worked at Honest Weightfor a total of seven and a half years, she’s also well-versed in its inner workings: buying policies, the community, local businesses, and what shoppers are seeking.

Come check out the unique, socially responsible gifts that the Co-op has to offer. There's always something new to discover.!